The dreaded "R" word

[Skip]

I appologize for bringing the frequently discussed refrigerator topic, but I have a problem in finding a unit that will fit in my 53 MY. In reviewing the old topics on refrigerators, all the models that were referenced have now been discontinued.

Has anyone found a refrigerator that is still in stock that will fit in a 53MY? The basic dimensions are 67.5" H, 33.5"W and 24" D.

I would appreciate any help...
Skip

 

[MikeP]

Skip, it may be very difficult to find a side-by-side that will fit in that vertical dimension - that will be the problem. To fit the depth and width, you will need a "counter-depth" depth. Unfortunately, all the current ones are taller than they used to be due to additional insulation.

Look at the cabinet above the fridge. If it is original, the sides and front of the cabinet probably extend perhaps two inches BELOW the base of the shelf. This two inches has nothing to do with the function of the shelf. You can cut that off the bottom of the cabinet so that the sides/front are flush with the bottom of the shelf. This will give you additional clearance. The PO had done that to our boat when he installed a new fridge in 1997 - which only lasted 7 years, they don't make 'em like they used to!

If you don't remove that cabinet "lip," there is probably no chance that any "normal" side-by-side will fit in there. Even WITH it removed, it is difficult to find something. I had to take the wheels off the fridge to gain the last 1/2" of so to get it in.

Good Luck!

 

[SKYCHENEY]

I just helped a dock neighbor install a new fridge in his 53ED. I can't remember the make or model, but it was a SS unit with doors on top and a drawer freezer on the bottom. I'll check with him this weekend and get a picture and model number for you.

 

[holtcl]

We put a counter depth Fisher & Paykel model in ours; it is a freezer on the bottom model, stainless; got it at Lowe's. Working out very well. Dimensions on the internet said less than 24" depth but watch out for the protrusion on the back where the compressor is; we had to take our our window frame (44 Hatteras) to get it in. Good luck!

 

[SKYCHENEY]

We put a counter depth Fisher & Paykel model in ours; it is a freezer on the bottom model, stainless; got it at Lowe's. Working out very well. Dimensions on the internet said less than 24" depth but watch out for the protrusion on the back where the compressor is; we had to take our our window frame (44 Hatteras) to get it in. Good luck!

That sounds like the same model that just went into that 53ED. It had a plastic cover that had to come off and then the bolts had to be removed from the compressor bracket to slide it back just a bit. After that, we could get it down the stairs and then reassemble.

 

[MikeP]

Good points that I should have emphasized - If you/the Admiral don't need a side by side, the issue is not difficult at all. Lots of counter depth over/under fridges will fit. But if the Admiral insists on a direct replacement for the original Side-by, things get much more difficult!

 

[bigbill]

hey skip, you don't have to get a counter depth if you go with an over/under. i just put one in my 58yf about a year ago. if you decide to go with the over/under and want the model number from mine, i will look it up for you. bigbill

 

[REBrueckner]

And don't forget when planning how to get it into your boat, the doors can be removed via the hinges then reassembled in the galley...

 

[SKYCHENEY]

Here is the info from the guy with the 53ED:

it is a 17 ft2 Fisher & Paykel. With water dispenser they only open from the left. .

 

[frank]

Hi Bigbill, what was the model # and type you put into your 58YF? Any issues getting it down the stairs? Thanks

 

[Skip]

Thanks for all the info. We can go with an over/under, but most of the larger ones (>20 cu feet) are too tall. Bummer. The marina is looking at the bottom of the cabinet above the refrig to give me a recommendation on how much I can shave off the cainet bottom. There is a good looking Maytag and a LG model that just might meet the height requirement if the admiral's cabinet can get a little stumpy... I'll keep everyone posted on the model number and any modifications necessary...
Thanks again,
Skip